Guidelines for Special Issue
Special Issues focus on a specific, timely topic within the scope of the journal and are intended to provide a comprehensive, in-depth exploration of the subject matter. They are curated by Guest Editors and contain contributions of high-quality research articles, book reviews, and/or case studies.

1. Proposal Submission

Guest Editor (s)  must submit a proposal that includes:

o  Title of the Special Issue: Suggest a concise, clear, and engaging title that accurately reflects the theme of the special issue. Ensure the title conveys the specific focus or topic, avoiding overly broad or vague terms.

o Overview: Provide a brief overview of the special issue's theme, highlighting its significance in the field and its relevance to current research trends. 

o Rationale: Clearly explain why this topic is timely, important, and worthy of a dedicated special issue. 

o Scope and Objectives: Outline the primary goals of the special issue, specifying the particular aspects or questions the issue will address.   

o Detailed Description of the Themes/Sub-Themes: Specify the research areas, break down the central theme into sub-themes, detailing the subtopics or key issues that the special issue will explore. 

o Expected Contributions: Explain the types of contributions you expect, such as original research articles, reviews, or theoretical papers. 

o Relevance to the Journal: Align the theme with the scope of the journal, ensuring that the topic complements its mission and readership. 

o Guest Editors’ and Reviewers’ Details: Provide the proposed Guest Editors’ and Reviewers’ Names, affiliations, contact information, and a brief biodata. Highlight the editorial experience and roles of the team, ensuring they can manage the review and editorial processes effectively. Consider international perspectives and gender balance where possible. 

Proposals should be submitted to the Editorial Office for review and approval (approval must be made by the executive committee).   

2. Role of Guest Editor (s)

Guest Editor (s) are responsible for: 

• Promoting the Special Issue and inviting contributions.
• Managing the peer review process (in coordination with the journal’s editorial office).
• Ensuring all submissions meet the journal’s standards.
• Writing an editorial/Preface for the Special Issue.
• Maintaining ethical standards and avoiding conflicts of interest.

3. Submission and Review Process

• All manuscripts must be submitted through the journal’s submission system.
• Authors must select the Special Issue title when submitting.
• All submissions will undergo rigorous peer review in line with the journal’s editorial policy.
• Acceptance is not guaranteed and depends on the quality and relevance of the manuscript.

5. Timeline Recommendations

• Submission Deadline: Provide a clear timeline for submission of full papers and final revisions.
• Review Process: Outline the timeline for the peer review process, ensuring enough time for thorough evaluations.
• Publication Date: Specify the planned publication date of the special issue.

6. Call for Papers

• Provide a draft or outline of the Call for Papers, including the deadline for submissions, guidelines for authors, and any particular formatting or submission requirements.
• Outline how you plan to promote the call, including the channels (e.g., social media, academic networks) and strategies for reaching potential authors.

7. Promotion and Outreach

• Detail your plans for promoting the special issue, both during the submission period and after publication.
• The journal will assist in promoting the Special Issue through Website highlights, Social media, Authors, and institutions outreach.  

9. Ethical Considerations

• Ensure the special issue maintains the highest standards of research integrity and ethical practices in the review and publication process. 
• Address any potential conflicts of interest within the editorial team and the review process.
• Ensure all submissions must comply with the journal’s ethical standards.
• The Editors-in-Chief retain full responsibility for the journal’s content, including all Special Issues.  
• Submissions by Guest Editors must undergo independent review and may not exceed 25% of the Special Issue.